Did you know that each year, an estimated 1.5 billion toothpaste tubes end up in landfills globally? Throwing out a toothpaste tube is a habit that quietly contributes to the growing mountain of plastic waste.

Luckily, there are plenty of ways to keep your teeth sparkling and clean without adding to the landfill. From toothpaste in a jar to toothpaste tablets, powders and tonics these zero-waste options are designed to work just as well as your regular toothpaste tube, but without nasty ingredients and with a much smaller environmental footprint. 

Ready to ditch the conventional toothpaste? Let’s explore which zero-waste toothpaste alternatives are best for you, how to make the switch for a more sustainable smile.

Zero-Waste & Natural Toothpaste Alternatives

1. Natural Toothpowder

Zero-waste toothpowder is a fantastic way to clean your teeth while cutting down on plastic waste. Packaged in reusable glass jars and each replacing up to three standard toothpaste tubes, Love Beauty Foods Toothpowders are free from fluoride, SLS, artificial flavours, sweeteners, and foaming agents, while being packed with natural antibacterial and anti-fungal ingredients that support oral health.

The Organic Mint & Neem and Organic Spearmint & Tasmanian Wakame powders combine Australian Bentonite and Kaolin clays to detoxify and gently polish teeth. After naturally whiter teeth? Meet the Teeth Whitening Powder! It uses activated charcoal to draw out toxins and lift yellow stains, leaving your teeth freshly cleaned and brighter.

2. Toothpaste Tablets 

For a simple, mess-free, zero-waste alternative, toothpaste tablets are an awesome pick. Solid Oral Care’s Fluoride Toothpaste Tablets come pre-measured in a refillable glass jar, replacing two plastic toothpaste tubes while giving you a dentist-approved clean.

Available in Fresh Mint or Strawberry, these little tablets foam up just like regular toothpaste and contain the recommended 1000ppm fluoride to help strengthen enamel and protect against decay. Perfect for travel or everyday use, they’re gentle enough for both kids and adults. Not sure about fluoride? Read more here

3. Tooth Tonics

Looking for something a little different? Tooth tonics are an innovative zero-waste option. The Tooth Faerie Tooth Tonics are basically toothpaste and mouthwash rolled into one. The natural Mint Plus and Fennel blends use essential oils like peppermint and clove, alongside turmeric, lemon myrtle, and oregano, to fight bacteria, freshen breath, and support healthy gums. For the little ones (aged 5–6 and up), there’s the gentle Mighty Mouth Children’s Formula.

Packaged in a reusable glass bottle with a dropper, tonics are perfect for home or travel. Just add two drops to a dry toothbrush or dilute it in a cup of water to use it as a mouthwash for an extra fresh kick.

4. Toothpaste In A Jar

For those who prefer the feel of traditional toothpaste but still want to ditch the tube, toothpaste in a jar is the zero-waste option for you! Solid Oral Care’s is founded by Laura, an experienced dental hygienist and oral health therapist and comes in glass jars. You'll find Fresh Mint, Spearmint, or kid-friendly Orange flavours. They're all SLS-free, dentist-approved, and packed with 1000ppm fluoride to protect enamel and keep teeth healthy. Each jar replaces two conventional tubes, making it a simple switch that’s kind to the planet.

Not sure whether to go fluoride or fluoride-free? Check out our blog ‘Should I Use a Fluoride or Fluoride-Free Toothpaste?’ for everything you need to know to make the best choice for your teeth.

For sensitive teeth, their Sensitive Toothpaste contains potassium nitrate to reduce discomfort while still offering gentle cleaning and all the benefits!

Brushing with Purpose

Every little swap counts, and before you know it, those tiny daily choices add up to a massive positive impact, for your teeth and for the environment. Whether you’re reaching for a tooth powder, a toothpaste tablet, a tonic, or a jar, you’re cutting down on plastic waste, skipping harsh chemicals, and supporting brands that care about the planet.

Want to make your entire oral care routine plastic-free? See our complete range of sustainable oral care products here! 

So go on, ditch the toothpaste tube and give your smile a zero-waste upgrade today!